Stagecoach Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stagecoach is a hydroelectric dam located in Colorado, specifically in La Plata County.


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Summary

Owned by a public utility, this structure stands at a height of 12 feet with a length of 160 feet, providing a storage capacity of 22,500 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation and recreation, making it a vital resource in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Stagecoach has a spillway width of 140 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4,360 cubic feet per second, emphasizing its importance in water resource management. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Despite the lack of detailed condition assessment data, Stagecoach remains a key player in water resource management in Colorado, showcasing the intersection of sustainable energy generation and recreational opportunities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Stagecoach play a crucial role in both mitigating risks and providing essential services to local communities.

Dam Length

160

Dam Height

12

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Surface Area

800

Nid Storage

22500

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.